25/05/2025
World Thyroid Day is observed annually on May 25 to raise awareness about thyroid health, promote early diagnosis, and support those affected by thyroid disorders. Established in 2008 by the European Thyroid Association, the date commemorates the association's founding on May 25, 1965 .
Significance of World Thyroid Day
Thyroid disorders are among the most prevalent endocrine conditions globally, second only to diabetes. In India alone, approximately 42 million people are affected by thyroid diseases . The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and hormonal balance. Dysfunction can lead to conditions such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), impacting both physical and mental health.
Common Thyroid Disorders
Hypothyroidism: Characterized by fatigue, weight gain, depression, and slowed metabolism.
Hyperthyroidism: Leads to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, irritability, and insomnia.
Goitre: An enlargement of the thyroid gland, often due to iodine deficiency.
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: An autoimmune condition causing chronic thyroid inflammation.
Graves' Disease: An autoimmune disorder resulting in hyperthyroidism.
Importance of Early Detection
Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for effective management of thyroid disorders. Symptoms can often be mistaken for other conditions, leading to delayed treatment. Regular screening, especially for high-risk groups like women and older adults, is recommended .
Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations
Maintaining thyroid health involves a combination of medication, diet, and lifestyle changes:
Nutrition: Incorporate nutrients essential for thyroid function, such as iodine, selenium, and iron. Foods like amaranth (rajgira), leafy greens, and nuts are beneficial .
Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, including yoga and pranayama techniques like Omkar, Anulom-Vilom, and Kapalbhati, to support hormonal balance and reduce stress .
Routine: Adopt consistent daily habits, such as eating dinner before sunset and spending time in natural environments to lower cortisol levels and improve overall well-being .
Medication Adherence
Proper medication practices are crucial for managing thyroid conditions:
Timing: Take hypothyroid medications on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning, and wait at least 90 minutes before consuming food or beverages like tea and coffee .
Consistency: Maintain a consistent schedule for medication intake to ensure optimal hormone levels.
Monitoring: Regularly test thyroid levels to adjust medication dosages as needed, typically one month after starting treatment, then every 6–8 weeks following dosage changes, and every 6–12 months once stabilized .
Raising Awareness
World Thyroid Day serves as a reminder of the importance of thyroid health and encourages individuals to seek medical advice if experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, or neck swelling. Increased awareness can lead to early detection and improved quality of life for those
Affected by thyroid disorder.